ABT Sportsline Unleashes 530-HP Audi RS5-R

For ABT, customizing a car is as easy as 1, 2, 3. The German tuner-car specialist just announced completion of its newest project, the RS5-R, an upgraded version of the already hot Audi RS5. It comes with a big power bump, suspension modifications, extra splashes of carbon fiber, and beefy exhaust outlets, among other enhancements.

The most significant improvements are under the hood. ABT Sportsline massaged the 2.9-liter twin-turbo V-6 to produce 530 horsepower and 509 lb-ft of torque, up from 450 horsepower and 443 lb-ft. ABT claims that’s good for a 3.6-second sprint from zero to 62 mph.

Beyond straight-line performance, ABT also addressed handling. The RS5-R has ABT sport anti-roll bars and ABT height-adjustable springs for a custom ride height. A coil-over suspension with ABT shock absorbers is currently in the works and will be an option in the future. ABT also gave the RS5-R ABT Sport GT 21-inch wheels.

And then there’s the carbon fiber. ABT added carbon fiber to the Audi with a new front splitter, a hexagonal grille surround, and aero elements on the bumper corners. The carbon continues with optional front fender vents, side strakes, a rear lip spoiler, and an aggressive rear diffuser. A

quartet of four-inch carbon fiber exhaust pipes complete the exterior package. Even more carbon is found inside, in the form of a gearshift cover, door and dash accents, and paddle shifters.

ABT will only build 50 examples of the RS5-R, but it has yet to release pricing information on the total package. Expect more information around the time of the Geneva auto show, when the model is set to make its debut.